Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you are craving something sweet, moist, and utterly comforting, this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with ripe banana flavor and topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, this banana cake is the perfect way to brighten your day, impress guests, or treat yourself to a slice of happiness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe feels like a warm hug and delivers incredible taste with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe plays a starring role, combining simple pantry staples with fresh flavors to create a cake that’s tender, flavorful, and irresistibly moist. From the ripe bananas that bring natural sweetness to the cinnamon that adds a cozy touch, here’s what you’ll gather before diving in.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and light crumb for the cake.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a subtle spice that complements banana perfectly.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and tender texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and adds a little crunch to the batter.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a deep, caramel-like flavor that adds depth.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide lift.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the cake’s natural flavors.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tanginess.
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient, delivering sweetness, moisture, and banana goodness.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: For a creamy, tangy frosting that balances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Makes the frosting silky and smooth.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting flawlessly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds a fragrant note to the frosting.
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Perfectly adjusts frosting consistency to make spreading a breeze.

How to Make Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to make sure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out beautifully shaped after baking. This first step sets the tone for your cake’s perfect texture and presentation.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This blend of dry ingredients gives your cake a lovely crumb and that warm, fragrant touch that pairs so well with bananas.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, helping your cake rise and stay tender.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to make sure they are fully incorporated. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra layer of warm, comforting flavor that you’ll notice in every bite.

Step 5: Combine Sour Cream and Bananas

Stir in the sour cream and mashed bananas until everything is well blended. This mixture adds moisture and tang, keeping the cake deliciously soft and giving it that unmistakable banana taste you’re after.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, which could make the cake dense instead of light and tender.

Step 7: Pour Batter and Bake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that your cake is perfectly cooked through.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting. Cooling is important because it prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting, ensuring a beautiful finish.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, continuing to beat until fluffy and spreadable.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

Spread that luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into squares and get ready to wow everyone with a dessert that tastes as good as it looks.

How to Serve Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pecans over the frosting for a delightful crunch and nutty accent. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also add an extra sparkle to your already irresistible cake.

Side Dishes

Pair your banana cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Fresh berries or a cup of hot coffee complement this cake wonderfully, balancing sweetness with a touch of brightness or bitterness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, cut the cake into fun shapes using cookie cutters or serve individual portions in mason jars with frosting layered between cake pieces. You could also add fresh banana slices or edible flowers on top for a charming and elegant look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your fresh cake, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the cake moist and the frosting fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze your banana cake either before frosting or after. Wrap the cake tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. The cake will keep well for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert to enjoy anytime.

Reheating

If you freeze your cake unfrosted, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm slices gently in the microwave for about 20 seconds before frosting. For frosted pieces, simply let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect because they are sweeter and mash easily, enhancing the banana flavor and moisture of the cake.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Can I substitute sour cream with something else?

Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream—it adds moisture and a slight tang without changing the flavor too much.

How long should I beat the cream cheese frosting?

Beat the frosting until smooth and creamy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. This aerates it nicely, giving you a fluffy, spreadable frosting.

Can I make cupcakes using this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Definitely! Just divide the batter into muffin tins lined with cupcake liners and reduce the baking time to about 18-20 minutes. Frost once cooled as usual.

Final Thoughts

Making this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is like baking a piece of joy that everyone will love. With its perfect blend of sweet bananas and creamy frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. So grab your mixing bowls, get those bananas ready, and treat yourself to something truly delicious—you deserve it!

Print